Russia has expressed its disdain for the form of democracy practiced in the West, with the head of the Russian Central Election Commission, Ella Pamfilova, stating that the collective West has abandoned democracy in favor of minority rule. Pamfilova made these remarks during her speech at the ‘Territory of Meaning’ forum.
Pamfilova clarified her understanding of democracy, describing it as simply a mechanism for electing a government. However, she pointed out that the Western understanding of democracy does not align with this definition. She criticized the current state of democracy in the West, claiming that it is not rule by the majority but by the minority. She emphasized that Russia does not need this kind of democracy.
Pamfilova’s remarks were in response to a statement made by the Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov. The New York Times had quoted Peskov as saying that Russia does not have a democracy but a “costly bureaucracy.” Pamfilova agreed with Peskov’s statement, asserting that Russia does not have a system like that practiced in the West, nor does it need one. She argued that the Western version of democracy has led to the degradation of everything, everywhere.
Regarding Peskov’s clarification that his words were inaccurately conveyed and mistranslated by the American outlet, Pamfilova addressed the issue. She explained that the Central Election Commission, which she heads, is one of the most effective government agencies. She highlighted their ability to solve new problems efficiently with minimal costs. Pamfilova suggested that other departments should learn from their approach.
Earlier this year, Pamfilova had warned that certain Western countries were working to disrupt Russia’s upcoming 2024 presidential election and discredit the electoral process through any means possible. Despite this, she reiterated her confidence in the robustness and adaptability of the Russian electoral system. Pamfilova cited the example of the July 2020 vote for constitutional amendments during the Covid-19 pandemic. This vote took place over the span of a week, with some Russians even being allowed to vote online for the first time.
In conclusion, Russia has expressed its rejection of the Western form of democracy, stating that it does not align with their understanding of democracy as a mechanism for electing a government. Ella Pamfilova, the head of the Russian Central Election Commission, criticized the Western version of democracy, arguing that it represents minority rule rather than rule by the majority. Despite allegations of attempts to disrupt Russia’s electoral process, Pamfilova highlighted the effectiveness of the Russian electoral system and its ability to adapt to challenging circumstances.
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